Jaydev Patel, most successful agent in New York Life history, recognized with statue unveiling in company’s landmark home office.

"The statue's placement, seated on a bench, will allow anyone visiting the conference center to take a photograph with Jay, which is fitting given the many agents and advisors across the country that he has inspired and mentored during his long career," said Mark Madgett, executive vice president and co-head of New York Life's Foundational Business.

Patel has qualified for New York Life's Chairman's Cabinet, a group of New York Life's top 50 agents based on sales excellence, every year since its inception. A decade into his career, he earned the title of New York Life council president in 1983 - the highest honor the company can bestow to an agent. Having qualified for 50 years, he's a life member of the Million Dollar Round Table, one of the most distinguished groups in the life insurance industry globally, as the standard of excellence for sales performance.

Despite his numerous achievements over the course of his outstanding and ongoing career, Patel shared that he measures success by the number of lives he has protected and the impact he's had on his clients and their families.

"I personally think there is no other profession, if practiced with integrity and compassion, that provides as much personal satisfaction," explained Patel. "I truly enjoy my work. No matter how many hours I've put in over the years, they've never been the same as hours spent working for someone else. The greatest blessings of this business are the opportunities to serve and make meaningful impact, while also controlling one's own destiny."

Over the years, Patel has committed to philanthropic work as well. In particular, he spearheaded and oversaw the renovation of three schools in his hometown, including two high schools and a primary school in Sojitra, India.

Patel's personal success has played a pivotal role in inspiring many others to become agents and in furthering New York Life's commitment to continuously invest in the career agency model by building a strong presence in the cultural markets, a significant growth area for New York Life today.